La Celeste Look To Keep
Africans Out Of Semis
Here's what the OGS World Cup writers are looking for in Friday's second quarterfinal between Ghanay and Uruguay (ESPN, 2:30 p.m . ET):
Jake Yadrich:
Ghana's athleticism proved to be a problem for the American squad, and with the support of an entire continent, I expect the Black Stars to do the same to Uruguay. But I see Ghana's run coming to an end on Friday. Both Andre Ayew and Jonathan Mensah will miss the match due to yellow cards against the USA, and Uruguay's duo of Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez will provide more firepower than Ghana can handle. Uruguay 2, Ghana 0
Ben Jackey:
Ghana are extremely fortunate to have escaped with a win against the United States. Uruguay have conceded but one goal so far and are much more physical in the back than the Americans were. Ghana will be missing one starter in the back and another creative winger. And, let's face it, Ghana hasn't really lit up the scoreboard with the exception of two scores on poorly defended balls. Uruguay have two world-class strikers, one of whom eventually will find net. Uruguay wins, 1-0. Africa's quarterfinal woes continue.
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Mike Dick:
+ Ghana must cope with the pressure of being on the verge of becoming the first African side to reach the last four.
+ Ghana must find a way to crack the stubborn Uruguay defense, and in doing so, not leave themselves vulnerable to the counter-attack, which is a specialty of the South Americans.
+ Ghana's defense has to neutralize Uruguay's tremendous trio of Suarez, Forlan and Cavani.
+ Will the loss of Godin in the center of Uruguay's defense compromise that unit in any way?
+ Can Suarez and Forlan remain sharp in front of the goal?
Jeremy Brown:
Two things will decide this match: Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez. Ghana have yet to face such a formidable forward partnership. Sure, Germany's Klose, Mueller and Podolski are firing on all cylinders but benefit enormously from exceptional midfield table-setting. The Uruguayan duo can make something out of nothing with the best of them. The Celeste also are stingier at the back than Monty Burns, and will not allow any solo efforts or bush-league goals like the Americans. Uruguay wins, 2-0.